The Youngberry ( Rubus x ursinus Youngberry ) is a fast growing perennial vine generally grown for their sweet plump berries. Developed in 1905 by US businessman, Byrnes Young, Youngberries have since become more popular in England, New Zealand, South Africa and here in Australia.
The plant is a cross between blackberry, raspberry and dewberry with berries that taste similar to a boysenberry but are slightly smaller and sweeter. Kept frozen, they also make a delicious berry smoothie.
During the English summer of 2020, Youngberries gained a surge in popularity after being featured in an episode of BBC’s Gardeners World. View the part of the episode by clicking this link and then skip to around 14 minutes and 20 seconds of the video.
Growth
Rubus ursinus x Youngberry is a hardy, woody vine that grows quickly up to 1.8 metres high. The vine will require support and generally grow long skinny vines that can be difficult to maintain. It is best to prune them back during the winter while they are dormant. The Youngberry plant suits cold and temperate climates were originally developed in Louisiana, United States which could also be considered sub-tropical.
In spring, Youngberry is a fast grower and will require a fertiliser high in nitrogen and regular watering. Flowering begins in late spring and continues through to the end of summer. Berries are harvested from around Christmas here in Australia right through until March.
One of the best features of the Youngberry is that extends the summer berry season.
FAMILY:
Roseaceae
CLIMATE:
Cold, Temperate, Sub-Tropical
TEMPERATURE RANGE:
-10 to 30°C / 14 to 85°F
SOIL TYPE:
Well draining moist soil
LOCATION:
Full Sun – Part Shade
HEIGHT:
Up to 1.8 metres (6 feet)
WIDTH:
Up to 1.8 metres (6 feet)
pH:
5.5-7.0
GROWTH TYPE:
Woody, Climbing, Deciduous Vine
WATER REQUIREMENTS:
Medium
POLLINATION:
Bees and Wind.
MATURITY:
2-3 years
GERMINATION RATES:
30-40%
GERMINATION TIME:
Cold Stratification for 4-5 weeks, post sowing germination around 3-4 weeks dependent on conditions
GERMINATION DIFFICULTY:
Medium to Hard. Cold stratification & patience required.
SEEDS PER GRAM:
Approximately 550
MEDICINAL QUALITIES:
No
WEED POTENTIAL:
No
SEED STORAGE & VIABILITY:
Cold Storage at 4°C (Fridge) up to 3 years.
FACTS ABOUT YOUNGBERRY
The Youngberry is a complex hybrid between three different species; raspberry, blackberry and dewberry.
Youngberries are only eaten fresh up to 4 days after harvest, however is very popular in jams and juices.
American botanist, Luther Burbank developed a berry variety that was named the ‘Phenomenal’. As an associate of Burbank, a businessman named Byrnes Young from Louisiana crossed the Phenomenal with a variety of Dewberry that would suit the warmer climate. The result of the hybrid produced the Youngberry in 1905 which was released to the public in 1926.
